Sir Paul McCartney has denied reports he had heart surgery and said he passed a recent medical with "flying colours".

He said on his website that reports the had undergone an operation were "completely distorted and untrue".

Sir Paul, 65, explained: "There was a minor irregularity which I needed to have tests for and which I have now been assured is completely fine."

Saying he wanted to set the record straight, he joked: "I have secretly been enjoying all the sympathy."

Reports he had undergone surgery were published earlier this month in several newspapers.

But Sir Paul said the tests took place over a year ago.

'Exaggerated version'

I have secretly been enjoying all the sympathy I've been getting

Sir Paul McCartney

"The media have only just recently reported an exaggerated version of this and that is why people have been asking me if I am OK," he said.

The former Beatle, who is in the middle of divorcing his estranged wife Heather Mills, insisted he has been given a clean bill of health and is "feeling great".

He added: "I would like to thank all of you and my friends and relatives for your concern and I'm very happy to put your minds at rest."

Sir Paul is to receive a special prize for outstanding contribution to music at next month's Brit Awards. He is also planning to stage the first major UK exhibition of photographs by his late wife Linda.